In This Newsletter:
Giovanni Rosso:
New Wine Spectator Insider Review
New Week – New Arrivals
Trending
Saint Cosme: Capturing Terroir
Hot Wines Arriving Thursday:
Bollinger Special Cuvee & Maccari Saia
Collector’s Corner:
Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine of 2020
Re-Arrives Mid- February
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Marie Courtin Resonance Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut, Champagne 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Case-6 Marie Courtin Resonance Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut, Champagne 2015 750ML ($359.95) $279 special (that’s only $46.50/bottle!)
Importer note “Sourced from massale selection vines 35-40 years in age from a single parcel located in Polisot (Cote des Bar). The fruit for Resonance comes from the top of the slope where there is little topsoil. Clay and Kimmerdigian Limestone bands similar to those found in Chablis. The Cotes des Bar is closer in proximity to Chablis than to Epernay. Aged in stainless steel and bottled with no dosage. Fresh and nervy with a rounder character than in past years. Classic Marie Courtin cut with a bit more meat on the bone.”
Marguet Pere & Fils ‘Sapience’ Premier Cru Extra-Brut, Champagne 2009 750ML ($269.95) $189 special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 96 points “This is the fourth vintage of Benoît Marguet’s Sapience, Champagne’s first organic prestige cuvée, which he began producing before he took over his family vineyards, using purchased grapes: Bouzy Pinot Noir from Benoît Lahaye, Cumières Pinot Meunier from Vincent Laval and Trépail Chardonnay from David Leclapart. Disgorged in June 2019 without dosage, the 2009 Brut Nature Premier Cru is showing brilliantly, wafting from the glass with a complex bouquet of citrus oil, dried orange peel, white flowers and subtle hints of praline. Full-bodied, layered and textural, it’s seamless and complete, with a deep core, ripe but racy acids and a long, intense finish.”
Peter Liem “Since 2006, Marguet has been working with Hervé Jestin, the former chef de cave of Duval-Leroy who is now a consultant to many wine estates around Europe. Marguet has gradually integrated Jestin’s homeopathic and biodynamic practices into his own winemaking, and the two of them have collaborated to create a special, naturally grown champagne that encapsulates and expresses Jestin’s philosophies. The first vintage of this super-cuvée was 2006, released in 2013, and the production was divided: half of it was sold under the Jestin label, with the other half under the label Sapience, which Marguet has indicated is a separate brand from the Marguet label.”
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Herbert Beaufort Carte d’Or Tradition Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Jeb Dunnuck 91 points “The NV Champagne Brut Grand Cru Carte d’Or (90/10 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) is a fine, elegant, impressive Champagne that offers notable richness in its ripe orchard fruits, brioche, yeast and spice-laced aromas and flavors. With an impressive mix of both elegance and power, it’s drinking beautifully today but is going to evolve gracefully for at least 4-5 years.”
2017-base, disgorged in 2020. Sustainably farmed from vines averaging 45 years of age.
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “10% Reserve wine aged in five-year-old 600L oak barrels 30% aged in stainless steel tank and 60% from that year’s harvest. Direct pressing and clarification of must, temperature controlled alcoholic fermentation, malolactic fermentation blocked and dosage is kept to a minimum, being close to Extra Brut. The predominance of the Pinot Noir grapes gives this Champagne body and strength. The color is pale gold and the bubbles are elegant.”
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Pierre Paillard ‘La Grande Recolte’ Bouzy Grand Cru Extra Brut, Champagne 2008 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
Winery note “La Grande Récolte represents the quintessence of the Paillards vineyards. Crafted by blending only the first press of old vine Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. 55% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay. 1.8 g/L dosage. Hard chalk bedrock with clay topsoil. La Grande Récolte benefits from extended aging “sur lie”: 10 years in our 19th century cellars at a depth of 53 feet/16 meters and at a constant 50°F/10°C temperature.”
Peter Liem note “Paillard’s vintage brut, now called La Grande Récolte, is blended from equal parts pinot noir and chardonnay, which is unusual for a Bouzy champagne, but which also reflects the estate’s commitment to chardonnay. It’s aged for up to ten years on its lees before release.”
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Francois Pouillon is both an innovator and a traditionalist, looking to ancient traditions in Champagne as a way to drive forward the quality of his wines. With an assortment of top-class vineyards in Äy, the Vallée de la Marne, and the Montagne de Reims, which he farms organically (with some biodynamics thrown in) he looks to make pure, crystalline champagnes. Like most of the very best growers, he’s begun bottling a number of single-vineyard wines, but that doesn’t tell the story of his dedication. He still uses a wooden basket press, which is an extremely gentle (and very low yielding) way to press wines, and he makes sure that all the vineyards’ lots are kept separately until the very last minute. The resulting wines are beautifully complex and detailed, with a vitality that’s really special.
R. Pouillon et Fils Valnons Brut Nature, Champagne 2013 750ML ($129.95) $99 special
Importer note “The name of this cuvée is short for “les Valnons Froid Cul”—a famous and seemingly cold hill in Aÿ. This wine embodies a very unique and rare experience: tasting true blanc de blancs from one of the best situated slopes in Aÿ, a grand cru famous for rich, articulate pinot noir. This wine delivers clear mineral verve with distinctive richness and intense texture.”
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France – Beaujolais
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie Les Labourons 2018 750ML ($39.95) $36 special
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie Les Labourons 2018 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special
Grapelive 95 points “The top or signature wine from the talented Anne-Sophie Dubois is her awesome Les Labourons Fleurie Cru Beaujolais that comes from a high elevation, with a warm Southwest exposure, parcel of Gamay vines that are set on the classic pink granite soils of this appellation, all of which give this gorgeous wine its intensity, distinction, heightened aromatics and elegance with a crisp detailing of pure flavors. This 2018 is impeccable with a clarity of terroir and focus showing a racy edginess and a slight hint of reduction to start before everything comes alive on the medium bodied palate with precise layers of dark vine picked berries, tart currant, strawberry, ripe cherries and earthy blueberry fruits along with delicate spices, mineral tones and crushed violets. While lovely and youthful, this deeply garnet/ruby Gamay beauty takes to another level with a fine structure, complexity and exceptional length in a quaffable package that just gets better and better as it fully opens in the glass, it is a Fleurie that has the style and grace of a Chambolle-Musigny, but at a much more reasonable price. There is no question that Anne-Sophie Dubois is one of young superstars of Beaujolais region and part of a new generation of vignerons that are bringing this area to world wide attention, and as her importer says, as well as redefining the identity of Beaujolais…. [She] has mostly shied away from the use of carbonic fermentation, preferring a more traditional Burgundian regime with mostly de-stemmed grapes, while employing a natural or indigenous yeast fermentation with a gentle handling of the wine from vineyard to bottle.… The 2018 Les Labourons came from the oldest vines and the best selections of grapes, which, as mentioned, were 100% de-stemmed and saw a cool maceration with the wine, after primary was complete, seeing an elevage of just over a year in all well used or what you’d call neutral French oak barrels.”
Domaine Pascal Aufranc Chenas Vignes de 1939, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($21.95) $19 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Deep, bright-rimmed violet color. Dark berries, cherry liqueur and candied licorice on the powerful, spice-accented nose. Open-knit and fleshy in style, offering spice-laced bitter cherry and cassis flavors and a smoky mineral nuance that expands with air. A subtle floral pastille note comes in on the gentle tannic finish, which lingers with resonating dark berry and floral character and strong, mineral-driven tenacity.”
Domaine Lucien Lardy Fleurie Les Roches Vieilles Vignes, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Translucent ruby color. Displays deeply perfumed red and blue fruits, candied violet and a hint of exotic spives on the expressive nose. In a weighty nut still energetic style, offering sweet boysenberry, black raspberry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors that tighten up steadily on the back half. Finishes with serious intensity, sharp detail and discreet tannins that come on late.”
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The next best price is $30
Robert Perroud Brouilly L’Enfer des Balloquets, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “Historically known as l’enfer, or hell, this sheltered vineyard is hand-harvested on a 40% slope. The resulting wine is ripe and smoothly textured. This vintage has spice and the potential of black fruits that will come out strongly as the wine matures. Drink from 2021.”
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France – Rhone
Domaine Les Grands Bois Rasteau Cuvee Marc , Rhone 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “Also stunning, the 2017 Rasteau Marc checks in as 50% Grenache and 25% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre that spent just under a year in demi-muids. Gorgeous notes of cassis, blackberries, ground herbs, and earth all emerge from this rich, Provençal, full-bodied Rasteau. With ultra-fine tannins, incredible balance, and a great finish, it too is one of the finest wines I’ve tasted from this estate.”
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Chapelle Saint Theodoric Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Guigasse, Rhone 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Joe Czerwinski – Wine Advocate 96 points “More powerful than its Le Grand Pin stablemate, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape La Guigasse is made the same minimalistic way—100% whole-cluster Grenache from a single site, in this case a sandy parcel in the lieu-dit La Guigasse. Raised in demi-muids for two years or more, depending on the vintage, it has some meaty, charred notes that could be barrel-derived, but the overall oak impact is probably more textural than olfactory. Hints of rose petals, cherries and even orange zest join with darker toned notes of cola and dried spices in a whirl of complexity that’s complemented by the wine’s silky tannins. It’s full-bodied but feels lighter, filling the mouth with its flavors while leaving the palate refreshed on the long finish.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Guigasse comes from a single lieu-dit in the heart of the appellation and is 100% Grenache that was not destemmed and was brought up in old barrels. It’s as Provençal as they come, offering a killer perfume of spiced red and black fruits, white pepper, garrigue, and herbes de Provence to go with a medium to full-bodied, seamless style on the palate. It benefits from air, is perfectly balanced, and is a complex, layered, incredibly satisfying 2017 Châteauneuf du Pape that can be enjoyed today or cellared for 15 years or more.”
Italy
Castell’in Villa Gazzarina Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Castell’in Villa Gazzarina Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2019 750ML ($239.95) $195 special (that’s only $16.25/bottle!) – in store pick up only, shipping not available on the case price
Pure form Sangiovese vinified in stainless steel. Light, bright & fruity.
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Castell’in Villa Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($34.95) $29 special
Case-6 Castell’in Villa Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($219.95) $165 special (that’s only $27.50/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 93+ points “The 2016 Chianti Classico is a wine that almost belongs in its own category, as it has very little to do with most straight Chianti Classicos. Powerful, classically austere and so incredibly beautiful, the 2016 is a total stunner. Sweet red cherry, tobacco, cedar, mint and dried flowers all open up with a bit of coaxing. All of the translucent beauty of Sangiovese comes through in a Chianti Classico that will leave readers weak at the knees. Readers who open the 2016 young will want to give it a good bit of aeration. If I could only have one wine reviewed in this entire article, it might very well be the Castell’in Villa 2016. The price? Ridiculous for the level of pedigree. What a wine.”
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Donnafugata Ben Rye Passito di Pantelleria, Sicily 17 375ML ($49.95) $39 special
James Suckling 95 points “Pale golden-amber color. A full-bodied, sweet white with evolving layers of honey, lilies, candied ginger, peaches, kumquats and lychees. So luscious, complex and balanced. Incredibly long finish. Drink or hold.”
Germany
Saul: Lauer makes some of the most singular, brilliant wines in the world. Based in the Saar, which is the colder, windier cousin of the Mosel, the wines he make have all the raciness, tension and electricity of standard Mosel Riesling compressed into a smaller package. It’s as though his wines are diamonds—beautiful, complex and dazzling, but with a density and edge that takes you aback.
Peter Lauer Ayler Fass 4 Riesling Feinherb, Mosel 2019 750ML ($39.95) $29.90 special
Mosel Fine Wines 91 points “The 2019er Ayler Riesling Fass 4 comes from the Scheidterberg and Sonnenberg side hills, and was fermented down to fully off-dry levels of residual sugar (34 g/l). It offers a superb nose made of beautifully floral elements (typical of the Scheidterberg), white peach, lemon, grapefruit, chalky minerals, elderflower, and smoke. The wine is gorgeously racy and playful on the palate, and leaves a stunningly intense and pure feel of orchard fruits, minerals, and flowers in the still delicately tart finish. This superb effort only needs a couple of years to smoothen its edges. 2024-2034.”
John Gilman 91 points “The 2019 Ayl Riesling ‘Faß 4’ from Florian Lauer comes in at 9.5 percent alcohol this year and carries 34.2 grams per liter of residual sugar, to buffer its 9.3 grams per liter of acidity. The wine delivers a superb aromatic constellation in 2019, offering up scents of gooseberry, lime peel, wild yeasts, a salty base of slate minerality, wild yeasts and a topnote of lemongrass. On the palate the wine is deep, fullish, complex and perfectly balanced, with a fine girdle of acidity, excellent focus and grip and a long, vibrant and classy finish. This is simply an outstanding ‘entry level’ bottling from Florian in 2019, and perhaps the most seamless use of the screwcap I have tasted from the vintage, as the finish’s texture here is excellent! 2020-2045.”
Importer note “This wine is SMOKING-good! In yet more revelations of climate change, the ‘1er Cru’ Scheidterberg and Sonnenberg hills that curl around the village of Ayl are beginning to turn out wines of real depth and complexity, yet they also still flaunt a bit of their even-more-cool-climate thing. This is only the second vintage of this wine I’ve brought in, but here we are. The 2019er comes in at a lean 34.2 grams residual sugar (a Feinherb) with damn near 10 grams of acid to keep absolutely energized. ‘A fine girdle of acidity’ writes Gilman amusingly. He finishes, on point: ‘This is simply an outstanding ‘entry level’ bottling from Florian in 2019.'”
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Peter Lauer ‘Kern’ Ayler Kupp Fass 9 Riesling, Mosel 2019 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special
Stuart Pigott-Jamessuckling 97 points “Enormous herbal complexity that sucks you into this maelstrom of minerals. Incredibly concentrated, but so bright and elegant, this is a great masterpiece of balance, everything plaiting together so beautifully through the super long finish. Tremendous aging potential. Drink or hold.”
John Gilman 94 points “As I mentioned last year in my note on the 2018, the lieu à dit of Kern is a top to bottom slice of the Kupp vineyard that sits on the western side of the hillside, with a southwesterly exposition. It is planted with seventy-four year-old vines. The 2019 Kern also comes in at 9.5 percent alcohol, sports 9.5 grams per liter of acidity and 39.2 grams per liter of residual sugar. The wine in 2019 shows off beautiful depth and complexity in its nose of lemon, pink grapefruit, wild yeasts, a very complex base of slate, citrus peel, lemongrass and a topnote of fleur de sel. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and racy, with a great core of fruit, a lovely buffer of residual sweetness, excellent focus and grip and a long, complex and seamlessly balanced finish. This too has electric acidity perfectly complemented by its level of residual sweetness. It is a touch more broad-shouldered than the Stirn (due to its generous serving of afternoon sunshine), perhaps a touch sweeter, but every bit as refined and light on its feet. Fine, fine juice. 2020-2060+.”
Importer note “‘Kern’ is named after the 19th century industrialist that cleared this more-western part of the Kupp; it is a small parcel that spans the entire top-to-bottom reach of the Kupp. Thus, for me, the wine always has something of the lift and rigor of ‘Stirn’ and something of the depth of wines like ‘Neuenberg’ and ‘Unterstenberg.’ The vines are old here, well over 70-years-old, so the wine has some stuffing. It has about 39 grams of residual sugar so is def. in that off-dry style, yet, with Lauer, it’s always about the balance. I like Gilman’s take: ‘This too has electric acidity perfectly complemented by its level of residual sweetness. It is a touch more broad-shouldered than the Stirn (due to its generous serving of afternoon sunshine), perhaps a touch sweeter, but every bit as refined and light on its feet. Fine, fine juice.'”
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Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Unterstenberg Fass 12 Riesling, Mosel 2019 750ML ($59.95) $45 special
Stuart Pigott-Jamessuckling 96 points “Nature is strong! Perfectly ripe mirabelle nose with so many delicate, herbal overtones that you could study it for hours. So concentrated, but also so creamy and delicate, this is a masterpiece of harmony and originality. Very long finish with so many herb and spicy notes. Drink or hold.”
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Austria
Weingut Tement Ried Rossberg Morillon (Chardonnay), Sudsteiermark, Austria 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Stephen Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2017 Ried Rossberg Morillon is from a very calcareous marl soil rich in iron and manganese. Vinified in old Burgundian pièces, this is a deep, rich and round, wonderfully aromatic yet pure and flinty [Chardonnay] with very fine tannins and a very elegant and lush texture. The finish is powerful yet pure and persistently salty, with lots of mineral tension and grip. This is an excellent, perfectly balanced but thrilling white whose lush and iodine character is a bit like a Jura wine. Tasted in May 2019.”
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Trending
Energetic & vibrant. A favorite of the Portland restaurant scene this is a dazzling wine for the price & pairs with just about anything.
Crowley Entre Nous Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2017 750ML ($39.95) $28 special, 22 bottles in stock now
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 91 points “Dark red. Spice-tinged raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by floral and smoky mineral notes. Gently sweet and focused on the palate, offering energetic red and dark berry flavors and suggestions of rose pastille and blood orange. Vibrant and precise in style, delivering solid finishing cut, fine-grained tannins and strong, spicy persistence.”
VinopolNote: The 2017 Entre Nous is mostly fruit from La Colina vineyard, with a touch of Oracle and Four Winds. It spent 20 months in mostly old oak barrels. This vintage saw no whole cluster and is a blend of Wadensville and Pommard clones.
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The average price is $31
M. Chapoutier Luberon La Ciboise Rouge, Rhone 2017 750ML ($19.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 M. Chapoutier Luberon La Ciboise Rouge, Rhone 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 special (that’s only $9.92/bottle —the lowest listed price in the country!) Sorry, no shipping on Case-12 special; sold only for in-store pickup.
Anna Lee C. Iijima-Wine Enthusiast 91 points “Notes of crisp raspberry, bramble and crushed stone introduce this full-bodied yet invigorating red. Blackberry and mulberry flavors are juicy yet vital, edged by hints of mineral and a zesty midpalate. Peppery, fine tannins linger on the finish. This lovely sip is ready now but should hold through 2023.”
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The average price nationally is $16
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Boscarelli’s 2016 Vino Nobile, the product of that legendary vintage, is drinking beautifully today, even as it sheds its baby fat. But the wine is also structured and complex, a sure sign that it will age beautifully.
Boscarelli Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Boscarelli Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($519.95) $419 special (that’s only $34.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 94 points “Expressive and harmonious, this red exhibits cherry, blackberry, violet and mineral aromas and flavors. Pure and elegant, with an underlying tension and intensity that drives the lingering aftertaste of fruit, stone and earth, showing a hint of wild herbs. Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Mammolo and Colorino. Best from 2022 through 2038. 4,200 cases made, 800 cases imported.”
Decanter 94 points “Niccolò and Luca De Ferrari assemble their Riserva from the estate’s oldest vines, essentially 3 or 4 parcels that are more than 20 years old. For ageing, they have moved to slightly larger and used casks in order to preserve freshness and grace. The 2016 is indeed deftly proportioned and refined, though with a firm and muscular backbone. It opens with balsamic notes of cedar and rosemary on a backdrop of strawberry. Nuances of mint and leather chime in on the palate, which is layered with succulent fruit. Full, without being heavy, this will take time to reveal all of its charms.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Editor’s Choice. Wild berry, blue flower, crushed herb, camphor and a whiff of tobacco mingle together on this vibrant red. Made with 85% Sangiovese as well as Canaiolo, Colorino and Mammolo, the radiant palate is loaded with finesse, delivering raspberry compote, Marasca cherry, licorice and Asian spice. Elegant, fine-grained tannins provide the framework while bright acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2021–2031.”
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Good Cab on a budget, nuff said
Haras de Pirque ‘Hussonet’ Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley 2015 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 90 points “Big and fresh-tasting, with concentrated dark plum, dark currant and black olive flavors. Asian spice and dark chocolate notes on the muscular finish. Drink now through 2024. 2,500 cases imported.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Giovanni Rosso:
New Wine Spectator Insider Review
New Week – New Arrivals
Trending
Saint Cosme: Capturing Terroir
Hot Wines Arriving Thursday:
Bollinger Special Cuvee & Maccari Saia
Collector’s Corner:
Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine of 2020
Re-Arrives Mid- February
Giovanni Rosso:
New Wine Spectator Insider Review
Giovanni Rosso makes Barolo that’s synonymous with the perhaps the most prestigious commune in the area: Serralunga d’Alba. The commune is known for powerful, age worthy versions of Barolo, highlighted by its most famous wines: Conterno’s Francia (and Monfortino), Giacosa’s Rocche del Falletto, Brovia’s Ca’Mia and a number of wines from Vigna Rionda. Perhaps no winery is more closely associated with the sub region than Giovanni Rosso, a winery that goes back to the 1890’s and has made its mark with powerful, intense Barolos.
The 2016 vintage is epic—up there with 2010, ’04 and ’01 in contention for best of the century—and Giovanni Rosso absolutely killed it in the vintage, with bold, traditional-styled wines that are everything we love about Barolo. The Serralunga bottling is a blend of a number of vineyards across their home commune—a step up from their entry-level wine. The two crus are absolute stars of the vintage, receiving rave reviews from both Wine Enthusiast and Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. No surprise that Wine Spectator featured the La Serra in their most recent Insider:
Giovanni Rosso Barolo La Serra, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points “Shows breadth for Serralunga, along with ripe cherry and strawberry flavors offsetting the burly tannins. Iron, sanguine and tobacco notes add complexity and it finishes with terrific length and a mouthwatering feel. This should come together nicely over time. Best from 2024 through 2050. —B.S.”
Also In Stock Now from Giovanni Rosso:
Giovanni Rosso Barolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Iris, woodland-berry and pine-forest aromas shape the nose. On the focused, vibrant palate, mint and star anise notes accent a core juicy Marasca cherry. Taut polished tannins and bright acidity provide balance and a firm lithe structure. Drink 2024–2031.”
Giovanni Rosso Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Rose, red-berry, camphor and dark-spice aromas slowly emerge in the glass. Showing Serralunga’s hallmark of firm structure and finesse, the full-bodied, youthfully tense palate delivers juicy red cherry, raspberry compote, dried mint and licorice set against a backbone of noble tannins. Bright acidity keeps it impeccably balanced. Drink 2026–2056. -Kerin O’Keefe”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “The Giovanni Rosso 2016 Barolo Cerretta is a tight, focused and high-energy expression of Nebbiolo. Red and purple fruit aromas of cassis, dried cranberry and cherry provide pretty highlights, but ample space is given to those equally pretty aromas of licorice, campfire ash and candied orange peel that so deftly play supporting roles. To the palate, this is a glossy, polished wine with enough tannic kick to carry it forward for another 10 or 20 years of cellar aging.”
Giovanni Rosso Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 94 points “Davide Rosso’s 2015 Barolo normale is a fabulous wine of earthy intensity and lingering charm. It proved just what the doctor order after a long week and the feeling of need for a slight celebration of getting through it all and the madness of the world. I was more than thrilled with this 2015 vintage, even though I am excited to get my hands on the 2016s… [This vintage] shows exceptional Nebbiolo purity and a compelling grace to its presentation. The nose starts more earth driven than fruity, kind of a surprise considering the warm year and concentration, but with air there is the pretty dried roses and hints of violets with a nice mineral tone as well and the dark berry fruit emerges with time in the glass. The palate is dense and firm, as you’d find in a Cru version, though everything folds together seamlessly in the mouth with its array of brandied morello cherries, damson plum, macerated raspberry and tart huckleberry fruits along with a touch of bacon, amaro minty herbs and black licorice…. The Barolo sees a long fermentation, close to a month in most years and sees between 24 and 36 months in large used French oak casks after primary fermentation, which occurs in cement vats with daily punchdowns during that maceration period as the wine goes to fully dry. The finished result is one of the best values out there and this 2015 is an awesome bargain!”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “The Giovanni Rosso estate makes some very pretty wines from the Serralunga d’Alba subzone in the Barolo appellation. This classic wine, the 2015 Barolo, provides a good introduction to the distinct taste profile shared by the two single-vineyard wines, Cerretta and Serra, also reviewed here. However, this wine hails from the warm and sunny 2015 vintage and supplies a greater kick of soft cherry fruit and rich concentration when compared to the more streamlined, long-term 2016 vintage. Those dark primary fruit aromas, the acidity and the tannic imprint are all beautifully measured to the enhanced intensity of this pretty and well-priced 2015 Barolo.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
New Wine Spectator Insider Review
Giovanni Rosso makes Barolo that’s synonymous with the perhaps the most prestigious commune in the area: Serralunga d’Alba. The commune is known for powerful, age worthy versions of Barolo, highlighted by its most famous wines: Conterno’s Francia (and Monfortino), Giacosa’s Rocche del Falletto, Brovia’s Ca’Mia and a number of wines from Vigna Rionda. Perhaps no winery is more closely associated with the sub region than Giovanni Rosso, a winery that goes back to the 1890’s and has made its mark with powerful, intense Barolos. The 2016 vintage is epic—up there with 2010, ’04 and ’01 in contention for best of the century—and Giovanni Rosso absolutely killed it in the vintage, with bold, traditional-styled wines that are everything we love about Barolo. The Serralunga bottling is a blend of a number of vineyards across their home commune—a step up from their entry-level wine. The two crus are absolute stars of the vintage, receiving rave reviews from both Wine Enthusiast and Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. No surprise that Wine Spectator featured the La Serra in their most recent Insider:
Giovanni Rosso Barolo La Serra, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 95 points “Shows breadth for Serralunga, along with ripe cherry and strawberry flavors offsetting the burly tannins. Iron, sanguine and tobacco notes add complexity and it finishes with terrific length and a mouthwatering feel. This should come together nicely over time. Best from 2024 through 2050. —B.S.”
Also In Stock Now from Giovanni Rosso:
Giovanni Rosso Barolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 96 points “Iris, woodland-berry and pine-forest aromas shape the nose. On the focused, vibrant palate, mint and star anise notes accent a core juicy Marasca cherry. Taut polished tannins and bright acidity provide balance and a firm lithe structure. Drink 2024–2031.”
Giovanni Rosso Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2016 750ML ($119.95) $89 special, 18 bottles in stock now
Kerin O’Keefe-Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Rose, red-berry, camphor and dark-spice aromas slowly emerge in the glass. Showing Serralunga’s hallmark of firm structure and finesse, the full-bodied, youthfully tense palate delivers juicy red cherry, raspberry compote, dried mint and licorice set against a backbone of noble tannins. Bright acidity keeps it impeccably balanced. Drink 2026–2056. -Kerin O’Keefe”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 95 points “The Giovanni Rosso 2016 Barolo Cerretta is a tight, focused and high-energy expression of Nebbiolo. Red and purple fruit aromas of cassis, dried cranberry and cherry provide pretty highlights, but ample space is given to those equally pretty aromas of licorice, campfire ash and candied orange peel that so deftly play supporting roles. To the palate, this is a glossy, polished wine with enough tannic kick to carry it forward for another 10 or 20 years of cellar aging.”
Giovanni Rosso Barolo DOCG, Piedmont 2015 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 20 bottles in stock now
Grapelive 94 points “Davide Rosso’s 2015 Barolo normale is a fabulous wine of earthy intensity and lingering charm. It proved just what the doctor order after a long week and the feeling of need for a slight celebration of getting through it all and the madness of the world. I was more than thrilled with this 2015 vintage, even though I am excited to get my hands on the 2016s… [This vintage] shows exceptional Nebbiolo purity and a compelling grace to its presentation. The nose starts more earth driven than fruity, kind of a surprise considering the warm year and concentration, but with air there is the pretty dried roses and hints of violets with a nice mineral tone as well and the dark berry fruit emerges with time in the glass. The palate is dense and firm, as you’d find in a Cru version, though everything folds together seamlessly in the mouth with its array of brandied morello cherries, damson plum, macerated raspberry and tart huckleberry fruits along with a touch of bacon, amaro minty herbs and black licorice…. The Barolo sees a long fermentation, close to a month in most years and sees between 24 and 36 months in large used French oak casks after primary fermentation, which occurs in cement vats with daily punchdowns during that maceration period as the wine goes to fully dry. The finished result is one of the best values out there and this 2015 is an awesome bargain!”
Monica Larner-Wine Advocate 93 points “The Giovanni Rosso estate makes some very pretty wines from the Serralunga d’Alba subzone in the Barolo appellation. This classic wine, the 2015 Barolo, provides a good introduction to the distinct taste profile shared by the two single-vineyard wines, Cerretta and Serra, also reviewed here. However, this wine hails from the warm and sunny 2015 vintage and supplies a greater kick of soft cherry fruit and rich concentration when compared to the more streamlined, long-term 2016 vintage. Those dark primary fruit aromas, the acidity and the tannic imprint are all beautifully measured to the enhanced intensity of this pretty and well-priced 2015 Barolo.”
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New Week – New Arrivals
France – Champagne
“These wines represent the height of vinosity in Champagne” –Antonio Galloni
“Intensely expressive, emotionally moving wines.” –Peter Liem
Marie Courtin Eloquence Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, Champagne 2015 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Importer note “Single parcel of Chardonnay located in the village of Polisot near the Pinot vineyard in the Cote des Bars. Massale selection, low-vigor rootstock, 15-20 yr old vines. Clay and Kimmerdigian Limestone bands similar to those found in Chablis. The Cotes des Bar is closer in proximity to Chablis than to Epernay. Aged in used barriques and bottled with no dosage. Remeniscent of Chablis with bubbles, this Blanc de Blanc is full, yet chiseled with intense mineral character.”
Marie Courtin ‘Indulgence’ Extra Brut Rose, Champagne 2015 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2015 Extra Brut Rosé Indulgence is 100% Pinot Noir that sees a maceration of about 48 hours. Pomegranate, mint, dried flowers, game and dried pear are all finely knit. Lifted floral and savory notes suggest at least some whole cluster influence. This is such a classy and expressive Champagne. Here, too, I see what appears to be more finesse than in the past. No dosage. Disgorged: November, 2018.”
Importer note “50 year old Pinot Noir vines from .30 hectares. Sandy marl with veins of kimmeridgian. Balanced above all else, the Indulgence rose is made from 100% Pinot Noir that macerated for four days. Not too fruity, not too meaty…just right! Non-dosé.”
Marie Courtin Presence Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, Champagne 2017 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Importer note “70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Blanc. Harvested from massale selection vines of 1/3 Pinot Blanc and 2/3 Chardonnay averaging 20 years of age. The Pinot Blanc is planted in kimmerdgian-centric soils while the Chardonnay is planted in portlandian soils. Aged in apoxy lined tank, three year elevage sur lie, unfined and unfiltered, zero dosage and zero sulfur added. Dominique Moreau’s Blanc de Blanc blend combines Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc grown in the unique kimmeridgian and portlandian soils of the Aube. This zero dosage, no sulfur added cuvee is rich and racy and has a commanding “presence”, if you will, just as we have come to expect from this rising star.”
“These wines represent the height of vinosity in Champagne” –Antonio Galloni
“Intensely expressive, emotionally moving wines.” –Peter Liem
Marie Courtin Eloquence Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, Champagne 2015 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Importer note “Single parcel of Chardonnay located in the village of Polisot near the Pinot vineyard in the Cote des Bars. Massale selection, low-vigor rootstock, 15-20 yr old vines. Clay and Kimmerdigian Limestone bands similar to those found in Chablis. The Cotes des Bar is closer in proximity to Chablis than to Epernay. Aged in used barriques and bottled with no dosage. Remeniscent of Chablis with bubbles, this Blanc de Blanc is full, yet chiseled with intense mineral character.”
Marie Courtin ‘Indulgence’ Extra Brut Rose, Champagne 2015 750ML ($99.95) $89 special
Antonio Galloni 92 points “The 2015 Extra Brut Rosé Indulgence is 100% Pinot Noir that sees a maceration of about 48 hours. Pomegranate, mint, dried flowers, game and dried pear are all finely knit. Lifted floral and savory notes suggest at least some whole cluster influence. This is such a classy and expressive Champagne. Here, too, I see what appears to be more finesse than in the past. No dosage. Disgorged: November, 2018.”
Importer note “50 year old Pinot Noir vines from .30 hectares. Sandy marl with veins of kimmeridgian. Balanced above all else, the Indulgence rose is made from 100% Pinot Noir that macerated for four days. Not too fruity, not too meaty…just right! Non-dosé.”
Marie Courtin Presence Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, Champagne 2017 750ML ($89.95) $79 special
Importer note “70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Blanc. Harvested from massale selection vines of 1/3 Pinot Blanc and 2/3 Chardonnay averaging 20 years of age. The Pinot Blanc is planted in kimmerdgian-centric soils while the Chardonnay is planted in portlandian soils. Aged in apoxy lined tank, three year elevage sur lie, unfined and unfiltered, zero dosage and zero sulfur added. Dominique Moreau’s Blanc de Blanc blend combines Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc grown in the unique kimmeridgian and portlandian soils of the Aube. This zero dosage, no sulfur added cuvee is rich and racy and has a commanding “presence”, if you will, just as we have come to expect from this rising star.”
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Marie Courtin Resonance Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut, Champagne 2015 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
Case-6 Marie Courtin Resonance Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut, Champagne 2015 750ML ($359.95) $279 special (that’s only $46.50/bottle!)
Importer note “Sourced from massale selection vines 35-40 years in age from a single parcel located in Polisot (Cote des Bar). The fruit for Resonance comes from the top of the slope where there is little topsoil. Clay and Kimmerdigian Limestone bands similar to those found in Chablis. The Cotes des Bar is closer in proximity to Chablis than to Epernay. Aged in stainless steel and bottled with no dosage. Fresh and nervy with a rounder character than in past years. Classic Marie Courtin cut with a bit more meat on the bone.”
Marguet Pere & Fils ‘Sapience’ Premier Cru Extra-Brut, Champagne 2009 750ML ($269.95) $189 special
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 96 points “This is the fourth vintage of Benoît Marguet’s Sapience, Champagne’s first organic prestige cuvée, which he began producing before he took over his family vineyards, using purchased grapes: Bouzy Pinot Noir from Benoît Lahaye, Cumières Pinot Meunier from Vincent Laval and Trépail Chardonnay from David Leclapart. Disgorged in June 2019 without dosage, the 2009 Brut Nature Premier Cru is showing brilliantly, wafting from the glass with a complex bouquet of citrus oil, dried orange peel, white flowers and subtle hints of praline. Full-bodied, layered and textural, it’s seamless and complete, with a deep core, ripe but racy acids and a long, intense finish.”
Peter Liem “Since 2006, Marguet has been working with Hervé Jestin, the former chef de cave of Duval-Leroy who is now a consultant to many wine estates around Europe. Marguet has gradually integrated Jestin’s homeopathic and biodynamic practices into his own winemaking, and the two of them have collaborated to create a special, naturally grown champagne that encapsulates and expresses Jestin’s philosophies. The first vintage of this super-cuvée was 2006, released in 2013, and the production was divided: half of it was sold under the Jestin label, with the other half under the label Sapience, which Marguet has indicated is a separate brand from the Marguet label.”
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Herbert Beaufort Carte d’Or Tradition Grand Cru Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Jeb Dunnuck 91 points “The NV Champagne Brut Grand Cru Carte d’Or (90/10 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) is a fine, elegant, impressive Champagne that offers notable richness in its ripe orchard fruits, brioche, yeast and spice-laced aromas and flavors. With an impressive mix of both elegance and power, it’s drinking beautifully today but is going to evolve gracefully for at least 4-5 years.”
2017-base, disgorged in 2020. Sustainably farmed from vines averaging 45 years of age.
Weygandt-Metzler Importer note “10% Reserve wine aged in five-year-old 600L oak barrels 30% aged in stainless steel tank and 60% from that year’s harvest. Direct pressing and clarification of must, temperature controlled alcoholic fermentation, malolactic fermentation blocked and dosage is kept to a minimum, being close to Extra Brut. The predominance of the Pinot Noir grapes gives this Champagne body and strength. The color is pale gold and the bubbles are elegant.”
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Pierre Paillard ‘La Grande Recolte’ Bouzy Grand Cru Extra Brut, Champagne 2008 750ML ($79.95) $69 special
Winery note “La Grande Récolte represents the quintessence of the Paillards vineyards. Crafted by blending only the first press of old vine Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. 55% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay. 1.8 g/L dosage. Hard chalk bedrock with clay topsoil. La Grande Récolte benefits from extended aging “sur lie”: 10 years in our 19th century cellars at a depth of 53 feet/16 meters and at a constant 50°F/10°C temperature.”
Peter Liem note “Paillard’s vintage brut, now called La Grande Récolte, is blended from equal parts pinot noir and chardonnay, which is unusual for a Bouzy champagne, but which also reflects the estate’s commitment to chardonnay. It’s aged for up to ten years on its lees before release.”
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Francois Pouillon is both an innovator and a traditionalist, looking to ancient traditions in Champagne as a way to drive forward the quality of his wines. With an assortment of top-class vineyards in Äy, the Vallée de la Marne, and the Montagne de Reims, which he farms organically (with some biodynamics thrown in) he looks to make pure, crystalline champagnes. Like most of the very best growers, he’s begun bottling a number of single-vineyard wines, but that doesn’t tell the story of his dedication. He still uses a wooden basket press, which is an extremely gentle (and very low yielding) way to press wines, and he makes sure that all the vineyards’ lots are kept separately until the very last minute. The resulting wines are beautifully complex and detailed, with a vitality that’s really special.
R. Pouillon et Fils Valnons Brut Nature, Champagne 2013 750ML ($129.95) $99 special
Importer note “The name of this cuvée is short for “les Valnons Froid Cul”—a famous and seemingly cold hill in Aÿ. This wine embodies a very unique and rare experience: tasting true blanc de blancs from one of the best situated slopes in Aÿ, a grand cru famous for rich, articulate pinot noir. This wine delivers clear mineral verve with distinctive richness and intense texture.”
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France – Beaujolais
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie Les Labourons 2018 750ML ($39.95) $36 special
Anne-Sophie Dubois Fleurie Les Labourons 2018 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special
Grapelive 95 points “The top or signature wine from the talented Anne-Sophie Dubois is her awesome Les Labourons Fleurie Cru Beaujolais that comes from a high elevation, with a warm Southwest exposure, parcel of Gamay vines that are set on the classic pink granite soils of this appellation, all of which give this gorgeous wine its intensity, distinction, heightened aromatics and elegance with a crisp detailing of pure flavors. This 2018 is impeccable with a clarity of terroir and focus showing a racy edginess and a slight hint of reduction to start before everything comes alive on the medium bodied palate with precise layers of dark vine picked berries, tart currant, strawberry, ripe cherries and earthy blueberry fruits along with delicate spices, mineral tones and crushed violets. While lovely and youthful, this deeply garnet/ruby Gamay beauty takes to another level with a fine structure, complexity and exceptional length in a quaffable package that just gets better and better as it fully opens in the glass, it is a Fleurie that has the style and grace of a Chambolle-Musigny, but at a much more reasonable price. There is no question that Anne-Sophie Dubois is one of young superstars of Beaujolais region and part of a new generation of vignerons that are bringing this area to world wide attention, and as her importer says, as well as redefining the identity of Beaujolais…. [She] has mostly shied away from the use of carbonic fermentation, preferring a more traditional Burgundian regime with mostly de-stemmed grapes, while employing a natural or indigenous yeast fermentation with a gentle handling of the wine from vineyard to bottle.… The 2018 Les Labourons came from the oldest vines and the best selections of grapes, which, as mentioned, were 100% de-stemmed and saw a cool maceration with the wine, after primary was complete, seeing an elevage of just over a year in all well used or what you’d call neutral French oak barrels.”
Domaine Pascal Aufranc Chenas Vignes de 1939, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($21.95) $19 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Deep, bright-rimmed violet color. Dark berries, cherry liqueur and candied licorice on the powerful, spice-accented nose. Open-knit and fleshy in style, offering spice-laced bitter cherry and cassis flavors and a smoky mineral nuance that expands with air. A subtle floral pastille note comes in on the gentle tannic finish, which lingers with resonating dark berry and floral character and strong, mineral-driven tenacity.”
Domaine Lucien Lardy Fleurie Les Roches Vieilles Vignes, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 93 points “Translucent ruby color. Displays deeply perfumed red and blue fruits, candied violet and a hint of exotic spives on the expressive nose. In a weighty nut still energetic style, offering sweet boysenberry, black raspberry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors that tighten up steadily on the back half. Finishes with serious intensity, sharp detail and discreet tannins that come on late.”
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Robert Perroud Brouilly L’Enfer des Balloquets, Beaujolais 2018 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “Historically known as l’enfer, or hell, this sheltered vineyard is hand-harvested on a 40% slope. The resulting wine is ripe and smoothly textured. This vintage has spice and the potential of black fruits that will come out strongly as the wine matures. Drink from 2021.”
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France – Rhone
Domaine Les Grands Bois Rasteau Cuvee Marc , Rhone 2017 750ML ($29.95) $24 special
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “Also stunning, the 2017 Rasteau Marc checks in as 50% Grenache and 25% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre that spent just under a year in demi-muids. Gorgeous notes of cassis, blackberries, ground herbs, and earth all emerge from this rich, Provençal, full-bodied Rasteau. With ultra-fine tannins, incredible balance, and a great finish, it too is one of the finest wines I’ve tasted from this estate.”
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Chapelle Saint Theodoric Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Guigasse, Rhone 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special
Joe Czerwinski – Wine Advocate 96 points “More powerful than its Le Grand Pin stablemate, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape La Guigasse is made the same minimalistic way—100% whole-cluster Grenache from a single site, in this case a sandy parcel in the lieu-dit La Guigasse. Raised in demi-muids for two years or more, depending on the vintage, it has some meaty, charred notes that could be barrel-derived, but the overall oak impact is probably more textural than olfactory. Hints of rose petals, cherries and even orange zest join with darker toned notes of cola and dried spices in a whirl of complexity that’s complemented by the wine’s silky tannins. It’s full-bodied but feels lighter, filling the mouth with its flavors while leaving the palate refreshed on the long finish.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Guigasse comes from a single lieu-dit in the heart of the appellation and is 100% Grenache that was not destemmed and was brought up in old barrels. It’s as Provençal as they come, offering a killer perfume of spiced red and black fruits, white pepper, garrigue, and herbes de Provence to go with a medium to full-bodied, seamless style on the palate. It benefits from air, is perfectly balanced, and is a complex, layered, incredibly satisfying 2017 Châteauneuf du Pape that can be enjoyed today or cellared for 15 years or more.”
Italy
Castell’in Villa Gazzarina Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2019 750ML ($21.95) $18 special
Case-12 Castell’in Villa Gazzarina Toscana IGT, Tuscany 2019 750ML ($239.95) $195 special (that’s only $16.25/bottle!) – in store pick up only, shipping not available on the case price
Pure form Sangiovese vinified in stainless steel. Light, bright & fruity.
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Castell’in Villa Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($34.95) $29 special
Case-6 Castell’in Villa Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($219.95) $165 special (that’s only $27.50/bottle!)
Antonio Galloni 93+ points “The 2016 Chianti Classico is a wine that almost belongs in its own category, as it has very little to do with most straight Chianti Classicos. Powerful, classically austere and so incredibly beautiful, the 2016 is a total stunner. Sweet red cherry, tobacco, cedar, mint and dried flowers all open up with a bit of coaxing. All of the translucent beauty of Sangiovese comes through in a Chianti Classico that will leave readers weak at the knees. Readers who open the 2016 young will want to give it a good bit of aeration. If I could only have one wine reviewed in this entire article, it might very well be the Castell’in Villa 2016. The price? Ridiculous for the level of pedigree. What a wine.”
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Donnafugata Ben Rye Passito di Pantelleria, Sicily 17 375ML ($49.95) $39 special
James Suckling 95 points “Pale golden-amber color. A full-bodied, sweet white with evolving layers of honey, lilies, candied ginger, peaches, kumquats and lychees. So luscious, complex and balanced. Incredibly long finish. Drink or hold.”
Germany
Saul: Lauer makes some of the most singular, brilliant wines in the world. Based in the Saar, which is the colder, windier cousin of the Mosel, the wines he make have all the raciness, tension and electricity of standard Mosel Riesling compressed into a smaller package. It’s as though his wines are diamonds—beautiful, complex and dazzling, but with a density and edge that takes you aback.
Peter Lauer Ayler Fass 4 Riesling Feinherb, Mosel 2019 750ML ($39.95) $29.90 specialMosel Fine Wines 91 points “The 2019er Ayler Riesling Fass 4 comes from the Scheidterberg and Sonnenberg side hills, and was fermented down to fully off-dry levels of residual sugar (34 g/l). It offers a superb nose made of beautifully floral elements (typical of the Scheidterberg), white peach, lemon, grapefruit, chalky minerals, elderflower, and smoke. The wine is gorgeously racy and playful on the palate, and leaves a stunningly intense and pure feel of orchard fruits, minerals, and flowers in the still delicately tart finish. This superb effort only needs a couple of years to smoothen its edges. 2024-2034.”
John Gilman 91 points “The 2019 Ayl Riesling ‘Faß 4’ from Florian Lauer comes in at 9.5 percent alcohol this year and carries 34.2 grams per liter of residual sugar, to buffer its 9.3 grams per liter of acidity. The wine delivers a superb aromatic constellation in 2019, offering up scents of gooseberry, lime peel, wild yeasts, a salty base of slate minerality, wild yeasts and a topnote of lemongrass. On the palate the wine is deep, fullish, complex and perfectly balanced, with a fine girdle of acidity, excellent focus and grip and a long, vibrant and classy finish. This is simply an outstanding ‘entry level’ bottling from Florian in 2019, and perhaps the most seamless use of the screwcap I have tasted from the vintage, as the finish’s texture here is excellent! 2020-2045.”
Importer note “This wine is SMOKING-good! In yet more revelations of climate change, the ‘1er Cru’ Scheidterberg and Sonnenberg hills that curl around the village of Ayl are beginning to turn out wines of real depth and complexity, yet they also still flaunt a bit of their even-more-cool-climate thing. This is only the second vintage of this wine I’ve brought in, but here we are. The 2019er comes in at a lean 34.2 grams residual sugar (a Feinherb) with damn near 10 grams of acid to keep absolutely energized. ‘A fine girdle of acidity’ writes Gilman amusingly. He finishes, on point: ‘This is simply an outstanding ‘entry level’ bottling from Florian in 2019.'”
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Peter Lauer ‘Kern’ Ayler Kupp Fass 9 Riesling, Mosel 2019 750ML ($69.95) $51.90 special
Stuart Pigott-Jamessuckling 97 points “Enormous herbal complexity that sucks you into this maelstrom of minerals. Incredibly concentrated, but so bright and elegant, this is a great masterpiece of balance, everything plaiting together so beautifully through the super long finish. Tremendous aging potential. Drink or hold.”
John Gilman 94 points “As I mentioned last year in my note on the 2018, the lieu à dit of Kern is a top to bottom slice of the Kupp vineyard that sits on the western side of the hillside, with a southwesterly exposition. It is planted with seventy-four year-old vines. The 2019 Kern also comes in at 9.5 percent alcohol, sports 9.5 grams per liter of acidity and 39.2 grams per liter of residual sugar. The wine in 2019 shows off beautiful depth and complexity in its nose of lemon, pink grapefruit, wild yeasts, a very complex base of slate, citrus peel, lemongrass and a topnote of fleur de sel. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and racy, with a great core of fruit, a lovely buffer of residual sweetness, excellent focus and grip and a long, complex and seamlessly balanced finish. This too has electric acidity perfectly complemented by its level of residual sweetness. It is a touch more broad-shouldered than the Stirn (due to its generous serving of afternoon sunshine), perhaps a touch sweeter, but every bit as refined and light on its feet. Fine, fine juice. 2020-2060+.”
Importer note “‘Kern’ is named after the 19th century industrialist that cleared this more-western part of the Kupp; it is a small parcel that spans the entire top-to-bottom reach of the Kupp. Thus, for me, the wine always has something of the lift and rigor of ‘Stirn’ and something of the depth of wines like ‘Neuenberg’ and ‘Unterstenberg.’ The vines are old here, well over 70-years-old, so the wine has some stuffing. It has about 39 grams of residual sugar so is def. in that off-dry style, yet, with Lauer, it’s always about the balance. I like Gilman’s take: ‘This too has electric acidity perfectly complemented by its level of residual sweetness. It is a touch more broad-shouldered than the Stirn (due to its generous serving of afternoon sunshine), perhaps a touch sweeter, but every bit as refined and light on its feet. Fine, fine juice.'”
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Peter Lauer Ayler Kupp Unterstenberg Fass 12 Riesling, Mosel 2019 750ML ($59.95) $45 special
Stuart Pigott-Jamessuckling 96 points “Nature is strong! Perfectly ripe mirabelle nose with so many delicate, herbal overtones that you could study it for hours. So concentrated, but also so creamy and delicate, this is a masterpiece of harmony and originality. Very long finish with so many herb and spicy notes. Drink or hold.”
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Austria
Weingut Tement Ried Rossberg Morillon (Chardonnay), Sudsteiermark, Austria 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 special
Stephen Reinhardt – Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2017 Ried Rossberg Morillon is from a very calcareous marl soil rich in iron and manganese. Vinified in old Burgundian pièces, this is a deep, rich and round, wonderfully aromatic yet pure and flinty [Chardonnay] with very fine tannins and a very elegant and lush texture. The finish is powerful yet pure and persistently salty, with lots of mineral tension and grip. This is an excellent, perfectly balanced but thrilling white whose lush and iodine character is a bit like a Jura wine. Tasted in May 2019.”
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Trending
Energetic & vibrant. A favorite of the Portland restaurant scene this is a dazzling wine for the price & pairs with just about anything.
Crowley Entre Nous Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2017 750ML ($39.95) $28 special, 22 bottles in stock nowJosh Raynolds – Vinous 91 points “Dark red. Spice-tinged raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by floral and smoky mineral notes. Gently sweet and focused on the palate, offering energetic red and dark berry flavors and suggestions of rose pastille and blood orange. Vibrant and precise in style, delivering solid finishing cut, fine-grained tannins and strong, spicy persistence.”
VinopolNote: The 2017 Entre Nous is mostly fruit from La Colina vineyard, with a touch of Oracle and Four Winds. It spent 20 months in mostly old oak barrels. This vintage saw no whole cluster and is a blend of Wadensville and Pommard clones.
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The average price is $31
M. Chapoutier Luberon La Ciboise Rouge, Rhone 2017 750ML ($19.95) $11.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 M. Chapoutier Luberon La Ciboise Rouge, Rhone 2017 750ML ($149.95) $119 special (that’s only $9.92/bottle —the lowest listed price in the country!) Sorry, no shipping on Case-12 special; sold only for in-store pickup.
Anna Lee C. Iijima-Wine Enthusiast 91 points “Notes of crisp raspberry, bramble and crushed stone introduce this full-bodied yet invigorating red. Blackberry and mulberry flavors are juicy yet vital, edged by hints of mineral and a zesty midpalate. Peppery, fine tannins linger on the finish. This lovely sip is ready now but should hold through 2023.”
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The average price nationally is $16
This is the base-2018, one of the first of that vintage in the shop. Get an early look at a vintage praised as the best in decades by insiders…
Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 750ML ($59.95) $45 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
No reviews for the current disgorgement. Prior reviews provided for reference.
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “The latest release of the NV Brut Réserve was disgorged in October 2019 with seven grams per liter dosage, and it’s based on the 2017 vintage. Exhibiting a glass bouquet of citrus oil, oyster shell, fresh peach and toasted nuts, it’s medium to full-bodied, racy and tensile, with lovely depth and concentration, fine energy and a long, penetrating finish.”
Peter Liem note “The range begins with the Brut Réserve, a non-vintage brut that usually contains about 25 percent chardonnay, 25 percent meunier and 20 percent pinot noir from the base vintage, along with 30 percent of reserve wines, also from the three varieties.”
“I often find myself reaching for the NV Brut Réserve, which is reliably one of the very finest Champagnes in its peer group” –Antonio Galloni, writing on the previous disgorgement
Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve, Champagne NV 750ML ($59.95) $45 special, 36+ bottles in stock nowNo reviews for the current disgorgement. Prior reviews provided for reference.
William Kelley-Wine Advocate 92 points “The latest release of the NV Brut Réserve was disgorged in October 2019 with seven grams per liter dosage, and it’s based on the 2017 vintage. Exhibiting a glass bouquet of citrus oil, oyster shell, fresh peach and toasted nuts, it’s medium to full-bodied, racy and tensile, with lovely depth and concentration, fine energy and a long, penetrating finish.”
Peter Liem note “The range begins with the Brut Réserve, a non-vintage brut that usually contains about 25 percent chardonnay, 25 percent meunier and 20 percent pinot noir from the base vintage, along with 30 percent of reserve wines, also from the three varieties.”
“I often find myself reaching for the NV Brut Réserve, which is reliably one of the very finest Champagnes in its peer group” –Antonio Galloni, writing on the previous disgorgement
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Boscarelli Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Boscarelli Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, Tuscany 2016 750ML ($519.95) $419 special (that’s only $34.92/bottle!)
Wine Spectator 94 points “Expressive and harmonious, this red exhibits cherry, blackberry, violet and mineral aromas and flavors. Pure and elegant, with an underlying tension and intensity that drives the lingering aftertaste of fruit, stone and earth, showing a hint of wild herbs. Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Mammolo and Colorino. Best from 2022 through 2038. 4,200 cases made, 800 cases imported.”
Decanter 94 points “Niccolò and Luca De Ferrari assemble their Riserva from the estate’s oldest vines, essentially 3 or 4 parcels that are more than 20 years old. For ageing, they have moved to slightly larger and used casks in order to preserve freshness and grace. The 2016 is indeed deftly proportioned and refined, though with a firm and muscular backbone. It opens with balsamic notes of cedar and rosemary on a backdrop of strawberry. Nuances of mint and leather chime in on the palate, which is layered with succulent fruit. Full, without being heavy, this will take time to reveal all of its charms.”
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “Editor’s Choice. Wild berry, blue flower, crushed herb, camphor and a whiff of tobacco mingle together on this vibrant red. Made with 85% Sangiovese as well as Canaiolo, Colorino and Mammolo, the radiant palate is loaded with finesse, delivering raspberry compote, Marasca cherry, licorice and Asian spice. Elegant, fine-grained tannins provide the framework while bright acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2021–2031.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Good Cab on a budget, nuff said
Haras de Pirque ‘Hussonet’ Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley 2015 750ML ($17.95) $14 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 90 points “Big and fresh-tasting, with concentrated dark plum, dark currant and black olive flavors. Asian spice and dark chocolate notes on the muscular finish. Drink now through 2024. 2,500 cases imported.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Saint Cosme:
Capturing Terroir
Capturing Terroir
If there is a single producer from the Rhône that embodies incredible value, it is St Cosme. The Côtes du Rhône, the CdR Deux Albion, the St Joseph, and the Crozes-Hermitage all over perform, delivering an incredible amount of flavors for wines that many others treat like run-off receptacles. The village level wines from Gigondas and CdP represent exceptional value, and even the Côte Rotie seems like a bargain when you try it side by side with wines of the same price. The one area where I had always had some hesitation was getting into the terroir wines of the estate: Le Poste, Le Claux and Hominis Fides. The prices took a quick turn upwards, and I thought “What am I really missing?”
I recently received an altogether too kind gift from a friend whom I’d always known as a lover of white Burgundy. It seemed odd that he was collecting Gigondas until he explained that he fell in love with Gigondas after a visit to St Cosme. The region is blanketed in a patchwork quilt of sand, clay and deep limestone. The drainage is terrific and the midslope soil allows for deep penetration and extended root structure. Frankly, it’s a gorgeous area to grow, with an unbelievable amount of sun and warmth to develop the dark, rich flavors and spicy, floral aromatics characteristic of the region. My friend explained that his experience at St Cosme tasting older bottles of the old vine parcels that surround the property showed him that Grenache was capable of as much nuance and elegance as his favorite Chassagne.
Grenache versus Chardonnay seemed very Jets versus Sharks to me. Why would you even want to try and draw any similarities between two? It isn’t so much the flavors, but the way that the wines draw out the mineral freshness from the soils. Consider Chardonnay you’ve had from subpar vineyards: flabby, overripe, overpowering flavors that dull the elegance and potential vibrancy of the fruit. Grenache, too, draws vibrancy from the soil that transforms it into something more elegant and alive. The right location makes Grenache swirl with light and verve – aromas drawn right from the hillsides that surround the vineyards. Burgundy might have the reputation as the best representation of terroir, but when you experience the vineyards of St Cosme, you know how the wines came to have their unmistakable profile.
The three bottles from St Cosme were full of life and wild dark berries and wild herbs. Scents of smoke and iron over fresh, sun-warmed raspberries with lavender and thyme dominated the Le Poste. It was strongly perfumed, yet had a light and very elegant body – it was up front and lovely, but continued to develop over four days. Le Claux, possibly the oldest vines available to Barruol, showed wet earth, dark blackberry jam and freshly snapped juniper branches. It was wild and old and needed the most coaxing, but showed all of the potential of this small parcel that was spared being uprooted by WWI. Finally, the Hominis Fides – the most perfumed of the lot. Violets and roses, cracks of pepper, hot cast-iron pans, fennel and rosemary. The Grenache is planted alongside a grand mix of the usual suspects from the southern Rhône, further enhancing the character of this wine. This was a truly stunning Grenache, reminiscent of the best CdP I have had. The tannins were more substantial, but that added to the overall feel of a wine that doesn’t know or care how old it is; it was ready to go with a vigorous decant and never stopped. At sixty years young, this site is still going strong and the wines seem to promise that they’ll be around for the next sixty. Maybe that is the exuberance of youth, but the wines are built for the long haul.
I looked in the card my friend sent along with the wines and enclosed was a photo of his two oldest sons, crawling under the scrubby growth that dots the hills around Gigondas. He said that for years after, he could still smell the garrigue on their clothes. These two boys are headed to college soon, and I hear that the wines from that first trip are still insanely fresh. Location, location, location.
Highlights In Stock Now from Saint Cosme:
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 750ML ($44.95) $38 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 750ML ($269.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special, 36 magnums in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Moving to the wines from bottle, the base Gigondas from this estate is a perennial winner and readers can safely buy bottles of this in just about every vintage. Giving up a Provençal bouquet of red and black currants, peppery herbs, leather, and loamy soil, the 2018 is medium to full-bodied, has a forward, sexy style, no hard edges, and a great finish. It’s terrific today yet still has enough tannins to evolve for 10-15 years if you’re so inclined.”
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “Blended on the spot from several different barrels, the 2018 Gigondas looks very promising. Asphalt, black cherries and tapenade feature on the nose, while the palate is almost painfully intense, with ample weight, great richness and a long, velvety finish.-JC”
I recently received an altogether too kind gift from a friend whom I’d always known as a lover of white Burgundy. It seemed odd that he was collecting Gigondas until he explained that he fell in love with Gigondas after a visit to St Cosme. The region is blanketed in a patchwork quilt of sand, clay and deep limestone. The drainage is terrific and the midslope soil allows for deep penetration and extended root structure. Frankly, it’s a gorgeous area to grow, with an unbelievable amount of sun and warmth to develop the dark, rich flavors and spicy, floral aromatics characteristic of the region. My friend explained that his experience at St Cosme tasting older bottles of the old vine parcels that surround the property showed him that Grenache was capable of as much nuance and elegance as his favorite Chassagne.
Grenache versus Chardonnay seemed very Jets versus Sharks to me. Why would you even want to try and draw any similarities between two? It isn’t so much the flavors, but the way that the wines draw out the mineral freshness from the soils. Consider Chardonnay you’ve had from subpar vineyards: flabby, overripe, overpowering flavors that dull the elegance and potential vibrancy of the fruit. Grenache, too, draws vibrancy from the soil that transforms it into something more elegant and alive. The right location makes Grenache swirl with light and verve – aromas drawn right from the hillsides that surround the vineyards. Burgundy might have the reputation as the best representation of terroir, but when you experience the vineyards of St Cosme, you know how the wines came to have their unmistakable profile.The three bottles from St Cosme were full of life and wild dark berries and wild herbs. Scents of smoke and iron over fresh, sun-warmed raspberries with lavender and thyme dominated the Le Poste. It was strongly perfumed, yet had a light and very elegant body – it was up front and lovely, but continued to develop over four days. Le Claux, possibly the oldest vines available to Barruol, showed wet earth, dark blackberry jam and freshly snapped juniper branches. It was wild and old and needed the most coaxing, but showed all of the potential of this small parcel that was spared being uprooted by WWI. Finally, the Hominis Fides – the most perfumed of the lot. Violets and roses, cracks of pepper, hot cast-iron pans, fennel and rosemary. The Grenache is planted alongside a grand mix of the usual suspects from the southern Rhône, further enhancing the character of this wine. This was a truly stunning Grenache, reminiscent of the best CdP I have had. The tannins were more substantial, but that added to the overall feel of a wine that doesn’t know or care how old it is; it was ready to go with a vigorous decant and never stopped. At sixty years young, this site is still going strong and the wines seem to promise that they’ll be around for the next sixty. Maybe that is the exuberance of youth, but the wines are built for the long haul.
I looked in the card my friend sent along with the wines and enclosed was a photo of his two oldest sons, crawling under the scrubby growth that dots the hills around Gigondas. He said that for years after, he could still smell the garrigue on their clothes. These two boys are headed to college soon, and I hear that the wines from that first trip are still insanely fresh. Location, location, location.
Highlights In Stock Now from Saint Cosme:
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 750ML ($44.95) $38 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-6 Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 750ML ($269.95) $219 special (that’s only $36.50/bottle!)
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Rhone 2018 1.5L ($99.95) $79 special, 36 magnums in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 93 points “Moving to the wines from bottle, the base Gigondas from this estate is a perennial winner and readers can safely buy bottles of this in just about every vintage. Giving up a Provençal bouquet of red and black currants, peppery herbs, leather, and loamy soil, the 2018 is medium to full-bodied, has a forward, sexy style, no hard edges, and a great finish. It’s terrific today yet still has enough tannins to evolve for 10-15 years if you’re so inclined.”
Wine Advocate 92-94 points “Blended on the spot from several different barrels, the 2018 Gigondas looks very promising. Asphalt, black cherries and tapenade feature on the nose, while the palate is almost painfully intense, with ample weight, great richness and a long, velvety finish.-JC”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $45
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Claux, Rhone 2018 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 95-97 points “Everything about the all-Grenache 2018 Gigondas le Claux is big. From the huge black cherry and blackberry fruit, to the insane levels of concentration, the rich, velvety tannins and the never-ending, licorice-tinged finish, this beauty should evolve positively for at least a decade and a half.-JC”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Quite ripe, with waves of warmed plum sauce and blackberry preserves rolling through, wrapped liberally with licorice root, sage and lavender notes. Iron minerality runs through the finish, letting the fruit and savory notes meld wonderfully. Built for the cellar. Best from 2022 through 2035.”
Jeb Dunnuck 95 points “Coming from a site just across the road from the Hominis Fides vineyard, the 2018 Gigondas Le Claux was not destemmed and brought up mostly in used, larger barrels. Beautifully Provençal notes of black raspberries, camphor, flowery incense, and peppery spice and emerge from the glass and this beauty is reminds me of a Grand Cru Red Burgundy on the palate with its seamless, elegant, layered texture. It’s not a blockbuster like the 2016 and 2017 yet shines for its complex aromatics and flawless balance. It also has more than enough structure to evolve for two decades.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $134
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Hominis Fides, Rhone 2014 750ML ($89.95) $79 special, 14 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 93 points “Well-built, with sage, savory and tobacco notes weaving around the core of blackberry and black currant, picking up charcoal and roasted alder accents. Best from 2017 through 2024.”
Jeb Dunnuck – Wine Advocate 92-94+ points “What will mostly likely end up being the wine of the vintage is the 2014 Gigondas Hominis Fides. From a single vineyard located just down the hill from the estate, fermented with 100% whole clusters and aged all in Burgundy barrels, it offers sensational notes of crushed rock, graphite, dried rose petals and licorice in a medium to full-bodied, elegant, seamless style that hides considerable tannic grip. It’s a beautiful wine that will still be drinking nicely in 2034.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 91-93 points “Deep ruby. Powerful, smoke-accented aromas of dark berries and incense, complicated by suave floral pastille and woodsmoke nuances. Fleshy and deeply concentrated, showing impressive depth to the densely packed red and blue fruit flavors, which are lifted by juicy acidity. The smoky note repeats on a youthfully tannic finish that shows impressive energy, power and thrust.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $205 (Seriously! Our stock is winery-direct through our local distributor…)
Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas Le Poste Rouge, Rhone 2017 750ML ($139.95) $109 special, 8 bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 97+ points “More closed and backward than either the Hominis Fides or Le Claux, the 2017 Gigondas Le Poste is nevertheless just as impressive and offers its hallmark purity and elegance paired with stunning richness and depth. Black and blue fruits, crushed rocks, graphite, and a beautiful violet character all define the bouquet. Rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, it’s the purity of fruit and balance that set this beauty above just about every other Gigondas out there. Do your best to hide bottles for at least 4-5 years.”
Wine Advocate 96 points “More civilized than it was last year out of barrel, the 2017 Gigondas le Poste boasts lovely blueberry and cassis fruit. It’s full-bodied and intense yet silky and darn near elegant on the palate. Don’t underestimate the quantity of (ripe) tannins here, which provide a pleasant chewiness to the long, salted-licorice finish.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “This is packed with steeped fig, blackberry and boysenberry confiture notes, laced liberally with violet, anise, tobacco and lavender accents. Has enough grip through the finish to keep it honest, with tar and juniper notes adding spine and heft. A beauty. Best from 2020 through 2035.—J.M.”
Josh Raynolds – Vinous 95 points “Deep lurid ruby. Highly fragrant suggestions of ripe red berries, cherry preserves, exotic spices and candied flowers are accompanied by a smoky mineral element that builds steadily with air. Smooth and seamless on the palate, offering intense black raspberry, cherry cola, spicecake and candied lavender flavors that convey a suave mix of power and delicacy. Closes smooth, gently tannic and impressively long, leaving sappy red fruit and floral pastille notes behind.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $127
Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph, Rhone 2018 750ML ($37.95) $28 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 94 points “Juicy and still youthfully compact, with singed mesquite and incense wrapped around a core of lightly mulled cherry, plum and blackberry fruit flavors. Incense note curls around the finish too. Should blossom with a touch of cellaring. Best from 2022 through 2030. —J.M..”
Importer Note “Saint Cosme Saint-Joseph is produced from 100% Sérine, an ancient and local variety of Syrah that is markedly different from modern selections. It is more oval, with lots of space in the bunch, resulting in a very aromatic wine. It is sourced from the climat Malleval in the northern part of the appellation near Condrieu. The wine is made from 70% destemmed with 30% whole clusters, fermented with indigenous yeasts, and aged in 20% new 228-liter barrels. Louis Barruol describes the microclimate of the vineyard Malleval as “very cold” which allows the grapes to retain acidity and showcase the floral aromas of the local Sérine variety. Aromas and flavors of blackberries and wild strawberries are accented by notes of peppercorns, tobacco, peonies, and violets.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $38
Chateau de Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albion Rouge, Rhone 2018 750ML ($24.95) $18 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Chateau de Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone Les Deux Albion Rouge, Rhone 2018 1.5L ($49.95) $39 special, 24 magnums in stock now
Importer Note “Château de Saint Cosme Côtes-du-Rhône Les Deux Albion is a blend of Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvèdre, and Clairette from the three Côtes-du-Rhône-Villages communes of Plan de Dieu, Saint Maurice, and Cairanne. The whole clusters are co-fermented with indigenous yeasts and vinified in conical wooden vats and concrete tanks for 18 months. Les Deux Albions is one of the outstanding wines of Louis Barruol’s collection and highlights the exceptional value that can still be found in the Côtes-du-Rhône category. The wine combines depth, structure, and finesse with aromas and flavors of roasted game, mesquite, and olive, crushed plum, and black currants.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast!
The average price nationally is $23
Saint Cosme Crozes-Hermitage, Rhone 2018 750ML ($34.95) $27 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Grapelive 93 points “The 2018 Crozes-Hermitage is a thrilling Syrah that adds touches of lavender, cracked pepper, farm bacon (meatiness) and subtle cedary wood notes as well as creme de cassis, it will go gloriously well with winter cuisine, especially lamb, wild mushrooms dishes and or sweet and smoky BBQ, as well as hard cheeses…Louis Barroul’s negociant line of Northern Rhone bottlings seem to get better and better every year and I am a huge fan of this Crozes-Hermitage, which always delivers a full array of classic flavors in the purest form possible with this 2018 showcasing the vintage’s energy and charm, this is a wonderful youthful Syrah to enjoy over the next three to ten years….The Saint Cosme Crozes-Hermitage unfolds with crushed violets, boysenberry, damson plum, blueberry preserves, forest floor notes, snappy licorice and olive tapenade flavors along with good acidity and well judged tannins that hold things tight, but still allow for a graceful mouth feel that is impressive for this appellation, which has in the last decade has become one of my absolute favorite go to regions…. The Saint Cosme Crozes-Hermitage Rouge is crafted from 100% Serine clone, the area’s ancient Syrah variety that many winemakers here covet and think is the region’s best expression of the grape that really transmits the terroir in perfect clarity, which this one certainly does. For the 2018 vintage Barroul went with 100% de-stemmed grapes with no whole cluster, preferring to promote a more elegant profile and excluding the bite of stems in this version… .Barruol sources his Crozes-Hermitage from the granite hillsides of Gervans and Erome, just behind Hermitage hill, noted himself that the wines are often quite similar to those of Hermitage, which is no small claim. Going on, he says that where these grapes are grown, could almost be an appellation in its own right because there is a huge difference within the ‘Chaissis’ terroirs of Crozes-Hermitage. Interesting, Barruol describes his 2018 Crozes as a long, broad, flavorful, ripe and balanced, exclaiming “what a vintage!” calling it probably one of the best since he started making it, which I find hard to argue with.”
Jeb Dunnuck 90-92 points “Looking at the Northern Rhône releases from Louis, the 2018 Crozes Hermitage offers terrific depth of fruit as well as hints of violets and pepper, medium body, and fine tannins. It’s beautifully textured and just sings of Syrah.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The average price is $34
Shop our entire selection of Saint Cosme wines on our web store!
Hot Wines
Arriving Thursday, January 28th
Arriving Thursday, January 28th
One of Champagne’s best known houses (and one of our best-selling Champagnes) for a reason
Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 re-arrival special
Case-6 Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($419.95) $312 special (that’s only $52/bottle!)
James Suckling 92 points “Fine bubbles combine nicely with the cooked apples, pie crust and lemon rind. Some biscuit, too. Full body. Layered and creamy with a crisp finish. Always delicious. Drink now.” [Reviewed July 2019]
Feudo Maccari Saia Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2016 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Feudo Maccari Saia Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2016 750ML ($179.95) $129 special (that’s only $21.50/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
James Suckling 95 points “A more subtle Saia than in the past with freshly picked mulberries, elderberries, tobacco, cedar and resin. Full-bodied and very tight on the palate with polished tannins and a long finish. The combination of dark fruit and minerals is irresistible. Drink in 2020.”
Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($69.95) $54.50 re-arrival special
Case-6 Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut, Champagne NV 750ML ($419.95) $312 special (that’s only $52/bottle!)
James Suckling 92 points “Fine bubbles combine nicely with the cooked apples, pie crust and lemon rind. Some biscuit, too. Full body. Layered and creamy with a crisp finish. Always delicious. Drink now.” [Reviewed July 2019]
Feudo Maccari Saia Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2016 750ML ($29.95) $24 pre-arrival special
Case-6 Feudo Maccari Saia Sicilia IGT, Sicily 2016 750ML ($179.95) $129 special (that’s only $21.50/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
James Suckling 95 points “A more subtle Saia than in the past with freshly picked mulberries, elderberries, tobacco, cedar and resin. Full-bodied and very tight on the palate with polished tannins and a long finish. The combination of dark fruit and minerals is irresistible. Drink in 2020.”
Collector’s Corner:
Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine of 2020
Re-Arrives Mid- February
Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine of 2020
Re-Arrives Mid- February
Critics have been gushing over Marqués de Murrieta’s 2010 Castillo de Ygay since its release, omitting few superlatives while praising the wine. So it came as no surprise when it was recently announced as Wine Spectator’s top wine of 2020.
Having already sold the last of our initial allotment, we were able to orchestrate another Vinopolis coup and wrestle another case and half from the local importer. With all the hype surrounding the wine we don’t expect this limited supply to remain available for long however. So if you’re a fan of traditionally made Rioja act quickly, because this is a can’t-miss bottle if there ever was one.
“Maturing well, this round red is a lovely example of the traditional style. Orange peel, dried cherry, forest floor, vanilla and black tea flavors mingle harmoniously over round tannins and citrusy acidity. Generous but gentle, lively, balanced and harmonious. Tempranillo and Mazuelo. Drink now through 2030.” -Wine Spectator
Re-Arriving Mid-February
Only six bottles available!
Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial, Rioja DOCa 2010 750ML ($249.95) $219 pre-arrival special
Falstaff Magazine 100 points “[Translated] Dark ruby garnet, violet reflections, subtle brightening of the edges. Fine mint, fine black cherries, fine herbs, fresh heart cherries, mineral and inviting, a multi-faceted, young bouquet. Juicy, complex, elegant, extract-sweet texture, fine round tannins, ripe heart cherries, delicate nougat, sticks for minutes, enormous future potential. Simple calculation: buy what is possible.”
James Suckling 99 points “Marvelous aromas of crushed berries, tobacco, cedar and mushrooms. Some dried cheese. Then turns to flowers. Very complex. Full and intense with fantastic depth and power. It goes on for minutes. It is a wine that exudes tradition but gives a sense of modernity with precise winemaking. Two years in oak, one in concrete and three or four in bottle. Drink on release and age onwards.”
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 97 points “I had very high expectations for the 2010 Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial, and the wine delivered as expected. 2010 was one of the finest vintages in Rioja in recent years, and this blend of Tempranillo with 15% Mazuelo (Cariñena) has to be one of the finest modern day Castillo de Ygays. The grapes come from a plot planted in 1966 at 485 meters in altitude, the highest in the estate, and the vines yielded 3,500 kilos per hectare. The two varieties fermented separately in stainless steel for 11 days, and the wine spent 26 months in a mixture of American and French oak barrels. I tasted the 2009 next to this 2010, and I had also had a bottle two nights before. So, I was able to compare this with the 2009, which was a very different year, as 2010 was a cooler year and a priori a more adequate year for long-aging wines like this Gran Reserva. The difference was the vegetative cycle, as the vinification and élevage was the same. This is sleeker and sharper, less developed and livelier than the 2009, which already shows some signs of “old wine” with aromas that remind me of the old classical Rioja reds. It has greatness and finesse and is a very attractive wine with all the stuffing and balance that is needed for a long (and positive) aging in bottle. This is one of the finest modern day vintages of Castillo Ygay. This is going to develop in the direction of the classical bottlings from yesteryear. 130,853 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2015.”
Decanter 97 points “Ygay these days is a blend of Tempranilo and Mazuelo, the later making up 15% in this vintage. 2010 will be remembered in the great vineyards of Europe as a classic year, elegant restraint and wonderful harmonious balance, even in youth, its key characteristics. The Ygay fits this template perfectly; plums and sloes, hints of blueberry and cassis, then figs, cocoa and sousbois, a distinct balsamic note to underline provenance. The Mazuelo etches fresh acidity and a powerful finish, leaving the Tempranillo the opportunity to dance flamboyantly on the mid-palate, the bringer of joy and harmony.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “Maturing well, this round red is a lovely example of the traditional style. Orange peel, dried cherry, forest floor, vanilla and black tea flavors mingle harmoniously over round tannins and citrusy acidity. Generous but gentle, lively, balanced and harmonious. Tempranillo and Mazuelo. Drink now through 2030.”
In Stock Now from Marqués de Murrieta
Wine Spectator Top 100 in 2019
Marques Murrieta Finca Ygay Reserva, Rioja 2015 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 93 points “The red blend 2015 Rioja Reserva is 80% Tempranillo with 12% Graciano, 6% Mazuelo and 2% Garnacha, a little more Graciano and Mazuelo, something logical in ripe and warm years like 2015. It’s produced with grapes from a diversity of the 30 different plots within the estate, to represent the character of if. It fermented in stainless steel and matured in American oak barrels for 18 months. It’s spicy and somewhat balsamic, with some dusty tannins. It’s a ripe and powerful vintage that only suffers next to the 2016 I tasted next to it when there’s a jump in precision and finesse. This is by far the largest volume produced at Murrieta, with almost one million bottles.”
James Suckling 93 points “So fresh and elegant with more than enough concentration and structure, this is a fine example of a 2015 Reserva. Ripe-blackberry, licorice, smoke and bourbon notes. I love the velvety texture of the long, intense finish. Better from 2019 and with long aging potential.”
Wine Spectator 92 points “Cedar, tobacco, dried cherry and spice flavors mingle in this red. Features a polished texture, with well-integrated tannins and orange peel acidity. Supple, harmonious and graceful. Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo and Garnacha. Drink now through 2025. 100,000 cases made, 9,067 cases imported.”
Having already sold the last of our initial allotment, we were able to orchestrate another Vinopolis coup and wrestle another case and half from the local importer. With all the hype surrounding the wine we don’t expect this limited supply to remain available for long however. So if you’re a fan of traditionally made Rioja act quickly, because this is a can’t-miss bottle if there ever was one.
“Maturing well, this round red is a lovely example of the traditional style. Orange peel, dried cherry, forest floor, vanilla and black tea flavors mingle harmoniously over round tannins and citrusy acidity. Generous but gentle, lively, balanced and harmonious. Tempranillo and Mazuelo. Drink now through 2030.” -Wine Spectator
Re-Arriving Mid-February
Only six bottles available!
Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial, Rioja DOCa 2010 750ML ($249.95) $219 pre-arrival special
Falstaff Magazine 100 points “[Translated] Dark ruby garnet, violet reflections, subtle brightening of the edges. Fine mint, fine black cherries, fine herbs, fresh heart cherries, mineral and inviting, a multi-faceted, young bouquet. Juicy, complex, elegant, extract-sweet texture, fine round tannins, ripe heart cherries, delicate nougat, sticks for minutes, enormous future potential. Simple calculation: buy what is possible.”
James Suckling 99 points “Marvelous aromas of crushed berries, tobacco, cedar and mushrooms. Some dried cheese. Then turns to flowers. Very complex. Full and intense with fantastic depth and power. It goes on for minutes. It is a wine that exudes tradition but gives a sense of modernity with precise winemaking. Two years in oak, one in concrete and three or four in bottle. Drink on release and age onwards.”
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 97 points “I had very high expectations for the 2010 Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial, and the wine delivered as expected. 2010 was one of the finest vintages in Rioja in recent years, and this blend of Tempranillo with 15% Mazuelo (Cariñena) has to be one of the finest modern day Castillo de Ygays. The grapes come from a plot planted in 1966 at 485 meters in altitude, the highest in the estate, and the vines yielded 3,500 kilos per hectare. The two varieties fermented separately in stainless steel for 11 days, and the wine spent 26 months in a mixture of American and French oak barrels. I tasted the 2009 next to this 2010, and I had also had a bottle two nights before. So, I was able to compare this with the 2009, which was a very different year, as 2010 was a cooler year and a priori a more adequate year for long-aging wines like this Gran Reserva. The difference was the vegetative cycle, as the vinification and élevage was the same. This is sleeker and sharper, less developed and livelier than the 2009, which already shows some signs of “old wine” with aromas that remind me of the old classical Rioja reds. It has greatness and finesse and is a very attractive wine with all the stuffing and balance that is needed for a long (and positive) aging in bottle. This is one of the finest modern day vintages of Castillo Ygay. This is going to develop in the direction of the classical bottlings from yesteryear. 130,853 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2015.”
Decanter 97 points “Ygay these days is a blend of Tempranilo and Mazuelo, the later making up 15% in this vintage. 2010 will be remembered in the great vineyards of Europe as a classic year, elegant restraint and wonderful harmonious balance, even in youth, its key characteristics. The Ygay fits this template perfectly; plums and sloes, hints of blueberry and cassis, then figs, cocoa and sousbois, a distinct balsamic note to underline provenance. The Mazuelo etches fresh acidity and a powerful finish, leaving the Tempranillo the opportunity to dance flamboyantly on the mid-palate, the bringer of joy and harmony.”
Wine Spectator 96 points “Maturing well, this round red is a lovely example of the traditional style. Orange peel, dried cherry, forest floor, vanilla and black tea flavors mingle harmoniously over round tannins and citrusy acidity. Generous but gentle, lively, balanced and harmonious. Tempranillo and Mazuelo. Drink now through 2030.”
In Stock Now from Marqués de Murrieta
Wine Spectator Top 100 in 2019
Marques Murrieta Finca Ygay Reserva, Rioja 2015 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Luis Gutierrez-Wine Advocate 93 points “The red blend 2015 Rioja Reserva is 80% Tempranillo with 12% Graciano, 6% Mazuelo and 2% Garnacha, a little more Graciano and Mazuelo, something logical in ripe and warm years like 2015. It’s produced with grapes from a diversity of the 30 different plots within the estate, to represent the character of if. It fermented in stainless steel and matured in American oak barrels for 18 months. It’s spicy and somewhat balsamic, with some dusty tannins. It’s a ripe and powerful vintage that only suffers next to the 2016 I tasted next to it when there’s a jump in precision and finesse. This is by far the largest volume produced at Murrieta, with almost one million bottles.”
James Suckling 93 points “So fresh and elegant with more than enough concentration and structure, this is a fine example of a 2015 Reserva. Ripe-blackberry, licorice, smoke and bourbon notes. I love the velvety texture of the long, intense finish. Better from 2019 and with long aging potential.”
Wine Spectator 92 points “Cedar, tobacco, dried cherry and spice flavors mingle in this red. Features a polished texture, with well-integrated tannins and orange peel acidity. Supple, harmonious and graceful. Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo and Garnacha. Drink now through 2025. 100,000 cases made, 9,067 cases imported.”
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